Captain Thomas Hugh Corbett Woolley of "The Cottage" South Collingham was killed in action 27^th April 1917 gallantly leading his men.

Captain Woolley was the eldest son of Mr R S Woolley and Grandson of Mr T Smith-Woolley of Collingham, was 28 and had a commission in the Sherwood Foresters in September 1914.

He was educated at Lancing College, and after training, became a member of the firm of Messrs Smith-Woolley and Wigram, Estate Agents of Collingham. The name Smith-Wolley is still well known in the village today.

Battalion records quote, "The death of Captain Woolley was deeply felt throughout the Battalion. Captain Woolley's name was almost a household word in the 8^th Battalion, and in the old 4^th Notts: which preceded it, as three generations of that family had commanded one of the companies".

The wooden marker cross which marked the battlefield grave of Captain Woolley is now in St John the Baptist Church. It was originally placed on the wall outside (see right) but has since been moved inside above the war memorial plaque on the South wall. (see left)

The battalion had been detailed to capture and hold the trenches, held by German troops, which were situated on the approaches to the village of Hargicourt, a strongly fortified and well defended area chiefly because it was a mining village. To the rear were the huge spoil heaps, which gave the Germans the great advantage of observation of any troop movements by the British.
" B" company under the command of Captain Woolley moved forward and after a brisk exchange of shots, one platoon captured the first switch trench. The enemy immediately counter attacked and Captain Woolley was killed. Losses among the company were heavy, over 30 men also being killed.